Canon in D beginner tutorial — Bonus ending!
This Bonus video explores an optional, more advanced ending for those of you who want to learn the beloved soaring melody that Canon in D is so famous for! We’ll also learn to pair it with the left hand accompaniment pattern that we learned in Part 4.
This is the original melody, as written by composer Johann Pachelbel!!
While this melody is more complicated than what we’ve learned so far, it’s still suitable for beginners to piano! You don’t need to read any sheet music or know music theory — I’ll walk you through this melody step-by-step, and show you the patterns that make this melody easier to learn and remember 👌
Preview of what’s in this piano tutorial:
0:00 - Melody preview
0:30 - Welcome!
2:42 - Section 1 RH
7:12 - Section 2 RH (and demo 1-2)
14:10 - Section 3 RH (and demo 1-3)
20:48 - Section 4 RH
27:13 - Demo full RH slower
28:12 - Demo full RH faster
29:45 - Section 1 HT
35:25 - Section 2 HT (and demo 1-2)
39:56 - Section 3 HT (and demo 1-3)
42:35 - Section 4 HT
46:52 - Demo full HT slow
47:47 - Demo full HT fast
48:30 - Connecting this melody with the rest of Canon in D
50:33 - Full demonstration of Canon in D
54:47 - Congratulations 🥳 and reflection
Complete tutorial list:
🌱 Canon in D for beginners -- Part 1: https://youtu.be/wlG_57btwvo
🌿 Canon in D for beginners -- Part 2: https://youtu.be/grFE4keM0NE
🌺 Canon in D for beginners -- Part 3: https://youtu.be/Ujo_BAjIja0
💐 Canon in D for beginners -- Part 4: https://youtu.be/RR1rR5p797o
🌳 Canon in D for beginners -- Part 5: https://youtu.be/ijzbx2tDMAI
🌟 Canon in D for beginners -- Bonus: This video!
If you’d like some extra support as you learn (or a sneak preview of the learning ahead!), I’ve created a printable version of the arrangement I wrote and use in this tutorial series. This arrangement includes:
The complete core arrangement designed specifically for new and returning players
An optional bonus ending featuring the iconic soaring melody, for those ready for a gentle challenge
A personal introduction with helpful tips and context to support your learning
Section-by-section study notes with fingering suggestions, practice tips, and direct links to video walkthroughs
Whether you’re learning this for yourself or preparing to share it with others, this version of Canon in D is a piece that can grow with you!